Polynesian Megaliths: Ha'amonga a Maui, Niutoua, Tonga

Comments (3)

Ian Stehbens, on July 15, 2008, said:

I took this photo while standing on the lintel of the three megaliths, or Trilithon, at the eastern end of the main Tongan island, Tongatapu.

This horizontal megalith is aligned according to the summer solstice. The linear clearing on the left is also oriented according to markings on this stone and accords with the direction of sunrise for the equinox days.

The trilithon, is called in Tongan, Ha'amonga a Maui. This name means Burden of Maui (the Polynesian demi-god).

There are other significant archaeological sites in Tonga, which cover a full range of features including pyramid tombs, tombs, baths, ancient ports, reclaimed land, and fortified areas with ditches and moats.

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Κώστας Ανδρεόπουλος, on July 16, 2008, said:

Great picture!!! Thanks for sharing!

Greetings from Greece, Kostas

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Ian Stehbens, on July 16, 2008, said:

Thank you, Kostas. The early Greek Civilzation is well known, but the early Polynesian civilzation and its history is far less known, so I am delighted that Greek has responded to this picture of Polynesian archaeology.

Kind regards,

Ian

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Photo taken in Tongatapu, Tonga

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